A new review published in Applied Food Research (December 2025) “discusses the antidiabetic potential of five underutilized crops: Buckwheat, Quinoa, Amaranth, Moringa, and Teff. These crops are rich in bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins, which are known to play significant roles in the prevention and management of diabetes. By improving insulin sensitivity, inhibiting glucose absorption, and providing antioxidant benefits, these phytochemicals help regulate blood glucose levels and enhance overall metabolic health. Additionally, the nutritional profiles of these crops, characterized by high-quality proteins, essential amino acids, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, make them valuable in promoting health and managing diabetes.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
This new review “explores the nutritional and phytochemical compositions of these crops, detailing the methods for detecting bioactive compounds, and presents key in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating their antidiabetic properties.” Furthermore, it also discusses the “prospects of integrating these crops into mainstream agriculture and food systems, emphasizing their potential as natural, holistic interventions for diabetes management. It provides a comprehensive resource for students, researchers, and policymakers, offering scientific insights that can guide further research, public health strategies, and policy development for promoting the use of these underutilized crops in managing diabetes.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
Antidiabetic Potential of Underutilized Crops
“Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder which is characterized by persistent hyperglycemia, resulting from defective insulin secretion, insulin action, or both (Lee et al., 201). The glycemic index (GI) ranks carbohydrates based on their effect on blood sugar levels within two hours of consumption, on a scale from 0 to 100. Low-GI foods (GI < 55) cause a slower rise in blood glucose and insulin levels. Such diets are linked to improved glucose and lipid profiles and better weight management through enhanced appetite control. (Schaffer-Lequart et al., 2017). Incorporating high-GI foods into the diet can elevate biomarkers associated with inflammation.
The GI [gastro-intestinal tract] may play a role in cancer prevention, as it influences blood sugar and insulin levels, which have been linked to cancer risk. Insulin resistance and insulin-like growth factors are also involved in cancers associated with dietary habits, such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers (Galeone et al., 2012; Mullie et al., 2016; Sieri et al., 2013; Turati et al., 2015). Reducing inflammation in individuals with gluten allergies offer protection against various diseases (Maki & Phillips, 2015).” (Kaur et al., 2025)
“Low GI diets have been linked with reduced insulin resistance and lower risk of developing diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular diseases (Atkinson et al., 2008; Maki & Phillips, 2015; Schaffer-Lequart et al., 2017). The GI [glycemic index] of quinoa ranges from 35 to 53, depending on cooking time. Notably, after cooking, refrigeration, and reheating (microwave, 1.5 min), the GI of 150 g of quinoa is reported to be 53, indicating that quinoa maintains its low GI even when overcooked (Atkinson et al., 2008). Human studies have indicated that quinoa consumption greatly lowers plasma glucose levels and reduces oxidative stress in Wistar rats fed on a high-fructose diet (31% fructose) as compared to the control rats (Pasko et al., 2010). De Carvalho reported that consuming quinoa significantly reduces triglycerides including free fatty acids (FFA) (De Carvalho et al., 2014).” (Kaur et al., 2025)
Elevated FFA levels can disrupt glucose regulation by impairing insulin function, leading to increased triglycerides. Regular consumption of quinoa can help lower free fatty acid levels, enhance insulin sensitivity, and lowers blood glucose as well as triglyceride levels. Oleanolic acid (OA) isolated from sprouted quinoa yogurts with its concentration optimized by the germination process has demonstrated antidiabetic activities. Sprouted quinoa can be used to derive OA nutraceuticals or incorporated as a food/functional ingredient (Obaroakpo et al., 2020). Three polysaccharide fractions, primarily composed of glucose, arabinose and galactose exhibited immunoregulatory effects in RAW264.7 cells, along with dose-dependent antioxidant and antidiabetic activities in vitro (Tan et al., 2021). α-Glucosidase and pancreatic lipase play key roles in the complex carbohydrate digestion and absorption of triglycerides, respectively. Bioactive compounds in foods that inhibit key digestive enzymes can aid in blood sugar regulation, offering potential benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
“Phenolic compounds in quinoa have demonstrated significant inhibitory effects on both α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase activities (Chen et al., 2022). A clinical trial involving older adult prediabetic individuals demonstrated that consumption of quinoa for 8 weeks resulted in lower reactive hypoglycemia levels and a reduction in body weight (Díaz-Rizzolo et al., 2022). Additionally, multiple meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have shown that regular consumption of quinoa has a beneficial impact on blood glucose and lipid metabolism, notably leading to considerable reductions in erum triglycerides (Atefi et al., 2022; Karimian et al., 2021; Navarro-Perez et al., 2017). In another study, it was revealed that quinoa yogurt intake reduces fasting blood glucose levels while increasing level of hepatic glycogen content in T2DM mice, probably via Akt/AMPK/PI3K signaling. Further, saponins from quinoa bran and bioactive peptides isolated from quinoa protein have been shown to lower lipid levels, blood glucose in vivo by modulating gut microbiota composition and abundance. These effects are linked to molecular mechanisms involving PPAR signaling and inflammation markers (Li et al., 2023a). (Kaur et al., 2025)
“Buckwheat is known for its low GI, which contributes to its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels (Zou et al., 2023). Various studies have shown that prolonged consumption of buckwheat-derived products can lead to significant improvements in managing hyperglycemia, a common characteristic of diabetes (Mondal et al., 2021). Its consumption can help stabilize blood glucose and improve overall glycemic control. Research indicates that consuming buckwheat enhances postprandial satiety and lowers insulin and plasma glucose levels more effectively than white wheat bread in individuals with type 2 diabetes (Su-Que et al., 2013). Flavonoids extracted from Tartary buckwheat have been shown to retain their antidiabetic properties post digestion (Bao et al., 2016).
The antidiabetic effects of the ethanolic extract of Tartary Buckwheat (TB), which contains high levels of rutin and quercetin, were systematically evaluated. This evaluation was conducted in FL83B hepatocytes exposed to high glucose and in C57BL/6 mice subjected to a fructose-rich diet (FRD) (Lee et al., 2012). The ethanolic extract of Tartary buckwheat (EEB) and rutin activate the Akt pathway, resulting in the upregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and the suppression of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) (Lee et al., 2012). Also, buckwheat-derived polyphenols, such as quercetin and rutin, along with non-starch polysaccharides and proteins, have been shown to effectively inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase. This inhibition aids in reducing the release of glucose and other mono- and oligosaccharides into the bloodstream (Wang et al., 2016; Zhu, 2021).” (Kaur et al., 2025)
Table 1 – included below – summarizes the antidiabetic activities of underutilized crops.
Table 1. Summarized antidiabetic activities of underutilized crops.
Source: Kaur et al. (2025)
Future Directions and Concluding Remarks
“Integrating buckwheat, quinoa, amaranth, moringa, and teff into daily diets can significantly enhance nutritional intake and aid in diabetes management. Practical ways to incorporate these crops include adding quinoa and amaranth to salads, soups, and casseroles, utilizing their high protein and fiber content to enhance satiety and glycemic control. Based on the studies reviewed, it can be deduced that buckwheat flour can be used in baked products, pancakes, and as a gluten free alternative in various recipes, offering a rich source of rutin and other bioactive compounds.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
Recipe for Balsamic Quinoa Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups quinoa, rinsed
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup Balsamic Vinegar or Seven Barrels Maple Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/3 cup agave syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
- 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- Handful of baby arugula
- 1/2 cup raw chopped pecans, toasted
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp sea salt, plus additional to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cook quinoa according to package directions. Let cool completely and fluff with a fork.
Prepare dressing: In a small bowl, whisk oil, balsamic vinegar or maple Balsamic vinegar and agave or honey.
Add 3/4 cup dressing to quinoa. Stir in cranberries, chickpeas, celery, arugula, scallions and salt. Refrigerate for a couple hours or overnight to let all the flavors blend.
Toast chopped pecans in a small pan over medium heat until toasted and lightly browned.
To serve, stir in remaining 1/4 cup dressing, add pecans and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
The recipe serves 8.
Recipe adapted from: Moss, M. Maple Balsamic Salad. June 15, 2021. Available at: https://www.7barrels.com/blogs/dark-balsamic-recipes/maple-balsamic-quinoa-salad?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23323763206&gbraid=0AAAAAoZ2gqF0gcQ33Y9S0H0aGX1NGhfRI&gclid=Cj0KCQiA0p7KBhCkARIsAE6Xlak8wPHvLAPOGNwcWfy5JNfzugETnnzvPmuvwdSkocD5MMlT-lN9qa0aAhWJEALw_wcB
“Moringa leaves, with their high antioxidant and nutrient content, can be incorporated into smoothies, teas, and vegetable dishes, providing a potent boost of vitamins and minerals. Teff flour, known for its rich iron and calcium content, can be used to make breads and traditional flatbreads like injera, which can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Public health campaigns and educational programs should promote the health benefits and versatile culinary uses of these crops to encourage widespread adoption. Cultivating these underutilized crops offers numerous agricultural and economic benefits.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
“These crops are often well-suited to marginal environments and can be grown with minimal inputs, making them sustainable and cost-effective. For instance, quinoa is known for its drought resistance, and moringa can thrive in poor soils while providing high yields. Developing efficient cultivation practices and providing support to farmers through training and resources can enhance yield and quality.
Creating demand through branding and marketing strategies, such as emphasizing the health benefits and unique qualities of these crops, can increase their economic value. Government policies and incentives can play a key role in promoting the cultivation and commercialization of underutilized crops, supporting biodiversity conservation, enhancing rural livelihoods, and promoting food security. For instance, The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) initiated the All India Coordinated Research Network on Potential Crops (AICRN-PC) to promote underutilized species. The initiative focuses on improved breeding strategies, nutritional and nutraceutical assessments, and germplasm conservation across India’s diverse agro-climatic zones.
By researching several potential crops, AICRN-PC released high-yielding varieties and supports food security, rural livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation, addressing future agricultural challenges and promoting sustainable crop cultivation in marginal lands. Despite the promising potential of these crops, there are gaps in current research that need to be addressed. Further studies are required to fully elucidate and validate the mechanisms of their antidiabetic effects, including their impact on insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and oxidative stress pathways.
Optimizing cultivation practices through agronomic research can enhance productivity and resilience, particularly in the face of climate change. Clinical trials involving larger and more diverse populations are essential to validate the efficacy of these crops in diabetes management, ensuring that findings are generalizable across different demographic groups.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
“Additionally, research should focus on developing value-added products, such as fortified foods or nutraceuticals, and exploring the synergistic effects of combining these crops with conventional treatments to maximize their therapeutic potential. Addressing these research gaps will provide a more robust evidence base for incorporating these crops into diabetes prevention and management strategies.
The cultivation and commercialization of these crops can also support sustainable agricultural practices, enhance food security, and provide economic benefits to rural communities. Encouraging the growth of these crops can contribute to biodiversity conservation and resilience against climate change, making them a valuable addition to sustainable agriculture. As the global prevalence of diabetes rises, innovative and sustainable solutions are urgently needed.
Buckwheat, quinoa, amaranth, moringa, and teff offer promising alternatives with significant nutritional and medicinal benefits for diabetes management. Continued research and promotion of these underutilized crops can play a key role in addressing the diabetes epidemic and fostering a healthier, more sustainable future.” (Kaur et al., 2025)
Reference
Kaur S, Gadpayale D, Kumari A, et al. Antidiabetic potential of underutilized crops: Nutritional, phytochemical insights, and prospects for diabetes management. Applied Food Research. 2025;5(2):101127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.afres.2025.101127.
Sustainable RDN 